NCC Introduces 315# Service to Help Nigerians Check Phones Before Purchase

The Nigerian Communications Commission has introduced a device verification service that allows Nigerians to check whether mobile phones and other communications devices meet the requirements for use on the country’s telecommunications networks.

The service, known as Device Checker, can be accessed by dialling *315# and following the instructions. Consumers can also use the device verification portal on the Commission’s official website.

According to the NCC, the initiative forms part of an enhanced Type Approval Compliance framework that took effect on October 7, 2026, to strengthen enforcement of existing technical requirements for communications equipment sold or used in Nigeria.

In a report published on Tuesday, Channels Television quoted the NCC’s Director of Technical Standards and Network Integrity, Edoyemi Ogoh, as saying the framework was intended to protect consumers, safeguard network performance and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy.

The Commission advised consumers to check a device’s status before paying for it, particularly when buying second-hand phones.

The verification process is intended to establish whether a device model has received NCC type approval and whether the particular device has been verified for use on Nigerian mobile networks.

Consumers can begin the verification process by dialling *315# and following the prompts.

Those checking a device other than the phone they are currently using may be asked to provide its 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity number, commonly known as the IMEI.

The IMEI can be displayed by dialling *#06# on the device. It may also be found in the phone’s settings or on its original packaging.

The NCC’s official guidance recommends checking the device before completing a purchase and confirming that the result indicates both type approval and verification for use on Nigerian mobile networks.

However, the Commission cautioned that a failed or unsuccessful verification does not automatically establish that a phone is counterfeit. Consumers should seek clarification from the seller and resolve any outstanding verification issues before paying.

The framework places the primary responsibility for compliance on manufacturers, importers, suppliers and other businesses involved in placing communications equipment on the Nigerian market.

Consumers purchasing devices from local sellers are not expected to obtain type approval themselves.

The Commission explained that the requirements are supported by the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, particularly Section 132(2), the Nigerian Communications (Type Approval) Regulations 2024 and the Type Approval Business Rules 2024.

It said the enhanced framework strengthens enforcement of existing requirements rather than introducing an entirely new type approval obligation.

The rules cover SIM-enabled communications equipment designed to connect to Nigerian mobile networks. These include smartphones, feature phones, cellular tablets, eligible Internet of Things devices, SIM-enabled laptops and point-of-sale terminals.

The NCC said devices found not to comply with applicable requirements could be denied access to Nigerian mobile networks.

The Commission’s guidance states that devices already connected to Nigerian mobile networks before the framework took effect on October 7 were automatically verified and generally require no action from their users.

It also says that a device bought within Nigeria does not ordinarily require its owner to obtain type approval personally.

Different procedures may apply to devices brought into the country from abroad. According to the NCC, a device that has never previously connected to a Nigerian network may be used for up to 30 cumulative days within a one-year period without verification.

Consumers importing devices for personal use are advised to consult the Commission for guidance on the applicable process.

The framework also distinguishes device verification from SIM registration. While SIM registration concerns the subscriber and mobile connection, Device Checker is intended to establish whether a device meets the relevant approval and verification requirements.

The Commission has also provided guidance on the information used during verification.

According to its published frequently asked questions, the system uses device identification information, including IMEI numbers, to establish compliance. However, the NCC says the service does not give it access to users’ personal content, such as messages, photographs or other files stored on their phones.

The Commission also states that Device Checker does not track users’ physical locations or movements.

Consumers have been warned to use only the official USSD service and NCC website when checking their devices. The Commission advises users not to disclose one-time verification codes to sellers, callers or other individuals.

The NCC says consumers experiencing verification difficulties or network restrictions can seek assistance through its official support channels or contact their mobile service providers.

The introduction of the service gives prospective phone buyers another way to assess a device’s regulatory status before completing a transaction. However, the Commission’s guidance makes clear that a successful verification is not a comprehensive assessment of a phone’s physical condition, repair history or the authenticity of every component.